Stenciling can be a very exacting task but none the less enjoyable. It requires a lot of hard work and determination. It also requires concentration and focus. Unlike other art forms, stenciling is a very personal art form where an individual get’s to choose their design. It is a great hobby that you can share with friends or family.
It is said that stenciling originally started with stenciled patterns in caves. It proliferated with more advancements and initiatives from the Japanese and Chinese. Other cultures like the Europeans and Romans helped in the spreading the art form.
There are many types of stenciling and include wall stenciling, graffiti stenciling and furniture stenciling. Stenciling is ideal for decorating and expressing yourself. It’s useful for you to have a broad knowledge about stenciling before doing a project, but don’t let that stop you. Here are some useful tips that can help in producing the right results.
- Use a proficient tool and choose your equipment carefully. Brushes for stenciling have short and firm bristles. They are also rounded; these characteristics of the brushes will prevent paint from seeping into the edges of the stencil. Other equipment recommended is a sponge and small roller.
- Start working from the outside towards the middle. This method will stop the paint from seeping under the edges.
- Don’t put too much paint on the brush as this will spoil the effect. Dip the brush into the paint lightly. Dab the brush with a piece of paper or cloth if there is excess paint.
- Apply coats individually and dry the first coating first before applying the second one. Apply paints thinly; it’s better to have a first and second coat than a thick one.
- Tape the stencil to avoid it from slipping down or to avoid spaces between the stencil and the surface and use good quality Tape.
- Make use of colors to make your stencil design standout but make sure to cover the areas with tape when you don’t want them to be included in a particular color that you are applying.
- Practice applying the paint and using your brush. Study your design carefully and practice it on other surfaces.
- Make use of X-rated stencils. These x-rays are the best for stencil cutting. Clean the surfaces where you will work along with your brushes. Cut your stencil cleanly and keep your stencils free from any paint, paint on the edges will damage the outcome of your design. Clean your brushes in between applying different coats. After cleaning your brushes and stencil, let them dry before using them again.
- Keep your stencils flat by putting them between two pieces of cardboard or a book or anything that will hold the design flat.